It’s easy to get swept away with the busyness of the season: holiday parties, baked goodies, entertaining. By mid-season, you often hear people saying they’ve lost the spirit of the holidays.

For many, it’s a time to connect with others and give back. It’s a natural time to express gratitude for what you have.

Each year we have donors who invite their networks to join them in giving, by starting their own fundraiser. Here’s what they tell us:

1. It’s easy.  There’s no shortage of online tools that will help you with fundraising. United Way makes it super easy. They ping you to thank your donors—and they’re sending their own thank you notes so that everyone feels appreciated!
2. Your friends will thank you for not having to bring another hostess gift. Yes, we all love candles, but sometimes enough or enough. When you host our holiday party, be explicit in your invite that instead of hostess gifts, you’d love people to make a small gift. It puts people in the holiday spirit right away.

Each time I have created a fundraiser, I’ve been amazed by the generosity of my friends, family and colleagues.

Andrea Gohlke, Communications Manager

3. A chance to learn more about an issue. You want to feel solid about what you’re asking your friends to join you in—and know that the money will make a difference in someone’s life. For United Way, you can choose to fight homelessness, help students graduate or help families become financially stable. Don’t want to choose? Ask for a general gift and the money will be used where it is needed most.
4. It makes you feel—and look—good. We all have those friends in our circle who inspire us to do more. Starting your own fundraiser puts you in that light! You’ll feel good watching their generosity pour in and friends and family will be glad you asked. It gives them an easy, personal way to give back. They get to support the community and you at the same time.

We hope you’ll consider joining them!